Family Mediation Twickenham

When parents separate or divorce, they often have to make difficult decisions about the custody and support of their children. These decisions can become even more complicated as the children get older and their needs change.

One common issue that arises is disputes over maintenance for older children. In this article, we will discuss how mediation can be used to resolve these disputes and help families reach mutually acceptable agreements.

What is Maintenance?

Maintenance is the financial support provided by one parent to the other for the benefit of their child or children. This support can include regular payments to cover expenses such as food, clothing, housing, and education. Maintenance is usually paid by the non-resident parent to the parent with whom the child lives, but this can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the family.

Why Use Mediation?

Mediation is a process in which a mediator, helps communication and negotiation between the parties to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process that can be used to resolve a wide range of disputes, including maintenance disputes for older children.

Mediation can be particularly helpful in these types of disputes because it allows the parents to work together to find a solution that is in the best interests of their child.

Advantages of Mediation for Resolving Maintenance Disputes Concerning Older Children

There are many advantages to using mediation to resolve maintenance disputes concerning older children. These include:

1. Flexibility – Mediation allows for creative solutions that may not be available through traditional court proceedings.
2. Cost-effective – Mediation can be less expensive than going to court.
3. Confidentiality – Mediation is a confidential process, which can help parents feel more comfortable discussing sensitive issues.
4. Faster resolution – Mediation can often resolve disputes more quickly than going to court, which can be especially important when dealing with maintenance disputes for older children who may be approaching adulthood.
5. Focus on the child’s best interests – Mediation is centered on finding a solution that is in the best interests of the child, rather than on winning or losing.

How Does Mediation Work?

The mediation process typically begins with an initial meeting between the mediator and each of the parties separately.

This is often followed by a series of joint meetings where the parties work together to identify issues and develop potential solutions. If an agreement is reached, the mediator will prepare a written agreement that both parties sign.

Maintenance disputes concerning older children can be complex and emotionally charged. Mediation can be an effective way to resolve these disputes and help families find a mutually acceptable solution that is in the best interests of their child.

If you are facing a maintenance dispute concerning an older child, Barclay Devere in Twickenham can help. Contact us today to learn more about our mediation services.

In summary, maintenance disputes concerning older children can be resolved through mediation. Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process that allows parents to work together to find a solution that is in the best interests of their child.

Mediation has many advantages, including flexibility, cost-effectiveness, confidentiality, faster resolution, and a focus on the child’s best interests. If you are facing a maintenance dispute concerning an older child, contact Barclay Devere in Twickenham to learn more about how we can help you resolve the dispute through mediation.